Via Gabina, Site 10 Villa

Via Gabina, Site 11 Villa

Introduction

The whole excavated metalwork assemblage from Sites G 10 and G 11
was examined. Most of the ironwork was in poor condition and corrosion had
reached an advanced stage in some cases. The resulting lamination, surface
depletion and fragmentation rendered identification difficult or impossible.
Thus, in addition to the catalogued iron artifacts there were many indeterminate
small broken fragments. There were also numerous iron nails, both fragmentary
and complete. The vast majority were of the ubiquitous Roman form, Manning's
Type 1 (Manning 1985, 134-7, Pl. 63, Type 1.), and they have been excluded from
the catalogue. Excluded, also, were small, not diagnostic fragments of
copper-alloy and lead.

The remaining groups of metalwork were not large--165 catalogue
entries for G 10, and just 44 entries for G 11. Nevertheless, they provide some
sort of gauge, however tenuous, for the range and scale of activity on the
sites. To assess those activities the artifacts were grouped into the categories
usually encountered on Roman sites: 1) weapons, 2) transport items, 3)
craftsmen's tools, 4) agricultural equipment, 5) knives, 6) other household
apparatus, utensils, and personal objects, 7) locks, keys and door furniture,
and 8) structural and other fittings. The data are presented in Tables 1 and
2.

Both sites yielded finds in the categories that would be
anticipated for villa/farm complexes, though each produced some variations. The
lack of weaponry occasions no surprise on sites with no known military usage,
but the presence of military horse pendants at G 10 (G 10 copper-alloy objects
nos. 7-10) is intriguing and not easily explained. Though it is tempting to
postulate a connection with the Imperial Post, another, more mundane,
explanation is probable. The complete absence from G 11 of other harness and
vehicle-fittings, and their virtual absence from G 10, is rather more surprising
and provides little evidence for the use of riding or draught animals at either
site.

Remarkable, too, is the absence of craftsmen's tools. These are a
common component of ironwork assemblages on villa sites, and they might have
been anticipated at both G 10 and G 11. It is possible that agricultural
specialization at both sites precluded such craft activity, and that the
products of smith and carpenter were bought elsewhere rather than being
manufactured on-site. Nor was the number of surviving agricultural tools great
at either site, and G 10 it was proportionately very low. Yet the few tools
found do not conflict with the suggested land use, and the ploughshare from G 11
(G 11 iron objects no. 2) is a find of exceptional interest.

The household component, high at G 11, included writing styli,
sewing needles, and tweezers as well as several vessels, including the handle of
a large wine jug from G 11 and a complete pan or ladle from G 10. But the most
commonly found articles of household equipment are knives, and the eleven
examples from G 10 (G 10 iron objects nos.4-14), which comprise about 10% of the
ironwork assemblage there, are of the order expected of a villa site. Very
surprising, and not readily explicable, is the complete absence of knives at G
11. In a sense, however, it is the presence, not the absence, of metal artifacts
that requires explanation. Iron could be re-forged and copper-alloy and lead
re-cast, so even worn-out or broken objects would seldom have been discarded. In
fact, the evidence does tend to indicate a careful control of materials: when
the categories are considered in terms of portable (categories 1-6) or fixed
(categories 7-8) objects, it can be seen that less than 20% of the G 10
assemblage and only a little more than 30% of the G 11 assemblage is portable.
That is to say, the great majority of the surviving metalwork from both sites
was in the form of door furniture and structural fixtures and fittings, which
were not easily removed when the sites were abandoned.

Of the 'fixed' objects revetment clips were a negligible component
at G 11 but were the largest single category of metal finds at G 10, where
ornamentation of the villa included colored marble revetments and Campana
reliefs in some profusion. The clips, made both in iron and copper-alloy, are
diagnostic and should be sought at other, less well-preserved sites where they
can provide evidence for the former existence of costly wall coverings. Another
characteristic though hitherto unknown structural fitting is the hooked staple
combined with a split-spiked loop (G 10 iron objects nos. 40-50). Its function
is uncertain, but it may have been a simple hinge or some kind of suspension
device. It is hoped that future finds will help to clarify its use.

Both sites were equipped with baths by the later 1st cent. AD, and
water may have been consumed in large quantity. That the flow of some of this
water was carefully organized and controlled is evidenced by the lead piping
fragments from both sites (lead objects G 10 nos. 1-3, G 11 no. 1) and, more
dramatically, by the copper-alloy component from a tap or stopcock at G 10 (G 10
copper-alloy objects no. 18).

In summary, the overall picture at both G 10 and G 11, as provided
by the metalwork, is of sites maintained fairly carefully, with little casual
loss or disposal of portable metal objects. Those few that were found give
evidence of agricultural and domestic activity, while the more plentiful
structural fixtures and fittings show, amongst other things, the normal
preoccupation with security in the form of numerous keys, lock components and
door fittings.

Catalogued Metal Finds from G10

Iron

Copper Alloy

Lead

All Metal

Categories

No.

Cat. Nos.

%

No.

Cat. Nos.

%

No.

Cat. Nos

%

No.

%

1) weapons

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

2) transport items

1

110

0.9

5

7-10,

37

10.9

-

-

-

6

3.6

3) craftsmen's tools

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

4) agricultural equipment

3

1-3

2.7

1

4

2.2

-

-

-

4

2.4

5) knives

11

4-14

9.9

-

-

-

-

-

-

11

6.7

6) other household apparatus, utensils, and
paraphernalia

3

15-17

2.7

7

1-3, 5-12

15.2

-

-

-

10

6.1

7) locks, keys and door furniture

19

18-36

17.1

7

13-14, 19-23

15.2

3

4-6

37.5

29

17.6

8a) revetment clips

31

73-103

27.9

12

25-36

26.1

-

-

-

43

26.1

8b) other fixtures and fittings

42

37-72, 104-9

37.8

4

15-17, 24

8.7

-

-

-

44

26.7

8c) plumbing -

-

-

-

1

18

2.2

3

1-3

37.5

4

2.4

9) miscellaneous/ unidentified

1

111

0.9

5

38-42

10.9

2

7-8

25.0

8

4.8

10) grave goods

-

-

-

4

43-46

8.7

4

2.4

TOTAL

111

46

8

165

Catalogued Metal Finds from G11

Iron

Copper Alloy

Lead

All Metal

Categories

No.

Cat. Nos.

%

No.

Cat. Nos.

%

No.

Cat. Nos

%

No.

%

1)weapons

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

2)transport items

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

3)craftsmen's tools

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

4)agricultural equipment

4

1-4

14.3

-

-

-

-

-

-

4

9.1

5)knives

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

6)other household apparatus, utensils, and
paraphernalia

4

5-8

14.3

5

1-5

35.7

1*

2

50

10

22.7

7)locks, keys and door furniture

4

9-12

14.3

5

6-10

35.7

-

-

-

9

20.5

8a)revetment clips

-

-

-

3

12-14

21.4

-

-

-

3

6.8

8b)other fixtures and fittings

14

13-26

50.0

1

11

7.1

-

-

-

15

34.1

8c)plumbing -

-

-

-

-

-

-

1

1

50

1

2.3

9)miscellaneous/ unidentified

2

27-8

7.1

-

-

-

-

-

-

2

4.5

10)grave goods

TOTAL

28

14

2

44

Catalogue

The tool is of the normal Roman form, combining two blades set at
right angles to one another. The sub-circular shaft-hole is blocked with
corrosion and with a nail, probably driven into the head of the wooden
handle - a common expedient, then as now, to brace a loose handle.
Advanced corrosion has caused lamination and flaking of the surfaces
which are also encrusted. This is unfortunate as it is now impossible to
ascertain how sharp the cutting edges were originally. If sharp, the
tool was probably a carpenter's axe-adze; if, as seems more probable,
they were slightly blunt, it was probably an implement of agriculture -
a small double bladed mattock. For Roman mattocks see Manning 1985, 44,
F8.

A light, slender, hooked blade with a long narrow tang. The blade,
which is sharp on the inner (concave) edge only, splays at the base
where it meets the tang. The tang, complete and of rectangular
cross-section, bears mineral-replaced remains of its wooden handle,
especially near the junction with the blade. A variety of light
agricultural and viticultural uses my be envisaged for this tool,
including pruning and the cutting of leaves for fodder. The type is
discussed by Manning (1985,53-8).

Fig. 2; Pl.
2

3. Shears. G 10/85 AA 22 C (2) SF no.
85.104 L 12.7 cm

One blade from a medium-sized U-shaped spring shears. The blade is
triangular, with a lightly concave back and a lightly convex cutting
edge. Its tip is broken. The broken tang is characteristically splayed
towards the spring. Hinged scissors were absent in the ancient world and
many of their tasks were fulfilled with spring shears. The size of this
example would be suited to general household usage as well as the
shearing of sheep and cutting of textiles.

Fig.
3

4. Cleaver. G 10/87 AA 23 C (4) SF
no. 87.22 L 13.3 cm Wt c. 50 gm.

A socketed knife with a large, deep sub-triangular blade. The back is
convex and the cutting edge straight. The socket is very short and
proportionately narrow. Despite the rather diminutive socket this was
probably a cleaver for butchering meat. It resembles Manning's Type 4
cleaver (Manning 1985, 120-123). For a similar though heavier example
with a more normal-sized socket see Jackson 1990, 64, 276, P1.29,
276.

A heavy, solid-handled knife. The blade, quite slender and apparently
approximately parallel- sided, is bent, and the end is broken. The
handle, proportionately large and heavy, is circular sectioned. It has a
lightly domed terminal, a molded junction with the blade and is knobbed
in imitation of a 'Hercules club'. The elaboration of this most unusual
form of knife, notably the highly decorated handle, suggests it had a
very specific use, but one which is not, at present, known.

Pl.
3

6. Knife. G 10/86 Y 23 Area V (6) SF
no. 86.56 L 17.4 cm

A rod-handled knife. The handle has a rounded rectangular cross-
section and terminates in a simple coiled suspension loop. The elongated
triangular blade has a straight back and a straight cutting edge.
Manning's Type 1lb knife (Manning 1985, 109,Fig.28).

Pl.
4

7. Knife. G 10/82 CC 22 D (2) SF no.
82.247 L 9.6 cm

A small tanged knife with lightly hooked tip. The slender, broken,
rectangular-sectioned tang is set centrally to the blade. The blade is
slender and parallel-sided, with a lightly plano-convex cross-section
and a gently upturned tip, the end now broken. An unusual blade form,
perhaps related to Manning's Type 7 B-C knives (Manning 1985, 112,
Fig.28 and nos. Q17-21), some of which may have served as razors.

Fig.
6

8. Knife. G 10/87 AA 19/20 S
(2) L 10.5 cm

A broken and distorted blade of flat triangular cross-section. The
back is humped and falls to the tip in a concave curve. The cutting edge
is a flattened S-curve. The form of the blade is very similar to
Manning's Type 7B knife (Manning 1985, 112, Fig.28.)

Fig.
7

9. Knife. G 10/84 W 21 Q (4) SF no.
84.198 L 9.5 cm

A broken blade. It is parallel-sided and very slender, with a flat
triangular cross-section. The back slopes down sharply to meet the edge
at the tip. Very similar to the blades of Manning's Type 1 knives
(Manning 1985,108-110, Fig.28) which are of 1st or early 2nd century AD
date.

Blade fragment, only, from a small knife, broken at both ends. It has
a comparatively thick, low-humped back and a straight cutting edge.

Fig.
10

12. Knife. G 10/82 W 18 B
(5) SF no. 82.128 L 5.0 cm

A broken blade from a small knife with flat triangular cross-section.
The back is straight, the cutting edge sloped.

Fig.
11

13. Knife. G 10/80 BB 12
D (1) SF no. 80.28 L 9.2 cm

Only the large rectangular-sectioned tang and the stub of the blade
survive. From what remains of the blade it appears to have had a
straight back and a convex cutting edge.

Fig.
12

14. ?Knife. G 10/87 Y 21
So. N (10) L 6.5 cm

A tanged blade broken at both ends. The slender rectangular-sectioned
tang is set centrally to the blade, which tapers evenly top and bottom.
It is impossible to tell whether the blade had a single or double
cutting edge.

Fig.
13

15. Stylus. G 10/86 BB 20
Area E (3) L 9.4 cm

A small example, complete except for the tip of the slender writing
point. The triangular eraser is short and broad; the stem is of circular
cross-section; and the shoulder/grip above the writing point is
decorated with a series of disc and ring moldings.

Pl.
5

16. Stylus.
Unillus. G 10/85 Y 23 P
(2) L 9.5 cm

An apparently plain example with broken writing point. The
wedge-shaped eraser is simple and slender, the stem of circular
cross-section.

17. Pin. G 10/80 X 18 G
(3) SF no. 80.62 L 3.2 cm

A small example with a rolled, lightly grooved head. The shank is
broken. Probably a dress- or hairpin.

Fig.
14

18. Key. G 10/80 BB 12 M
(5) SF no. 80.214 L 11.5 cm L teeth
2.5 cm

A complete slide key with the teeth set on a stepped (Z-shaped) bit.
There are six teeth, all complete, of rounded rectangular cross-section,
and possibly of slightly different form and size. The softened
rectangular-sectioned handle tapers evenly from top to bottom. It has a
collar-like circular suspension loop, block with corrosion. For a
discussion of the type see Manning 1985, 91-93 and Fig. 25, 4-5.

Pl.
6

19. Key. G 10/79 P 1-0 D
(5) SF no. 79.38 L 7.1 cm L teeth
1.8 cm

A small slide key with the teeth set on a stepped (Z-shaped) bit.
There are five teeth, two of which are broken. The complete ones are
square-ended. All have a rectangular cross-section. The short
rectangular-sectioned handle tapers from top to bottom. Its collar-like
circular suspension loop is neatly made.

Pl.
7

20. Key.
Unillus. G 10/78 O 12 A (4)
SF no. 78.22 L 8.6 cm

A badly corroded slide key with at least. four teeth set on a stepped
(Z-shaped) bit. The rectangular-sectioned handle is stout and tapered
with a broad, circular collar-like suspension
loop.

21. Key. G 10/87 Y 21 So.
N (8) SF no. 87.74 L 8.8 cm L teeth
2.6 cm

A slide key with six teeth set on an elliptical (C-shaped) bit.
Corrosion obscures most detail but the teeth appear to be of rounded
rectangular cross-section. The gently tapered handle has a softened
rectangular cross-section, and a collar-like circular suspension loop.
For a discussion of the type see Manning 1985, 91-93, Fig.25, 6.

Fig.
15

22. Key. G 10/82 X 16 A
(3) SF no. 82.332 L 7.0 cm L teeth
2.2. cm

A small slide key with the teeth set on an elliptical (C-shaped) bit.
There are five teeth, two of which are complete. They are long and thin,
of rounded rectangular cross-section, and Possibly of slightly differing
form and size. The handle has a rounded rectangular cross-section and
terminates in a neatly made collar like suspension loop.

Pl.
8

23. Key.
Unillus. G 10/81 BB 15 North
B (2) L teeth 1.9 cm

An elliptical (C-shaped) bit fragment from a slide key. There are
four teeth, only one of which is
complete.

A small slide key with five teeth cut into the straight rectangular
bit. The handle, of rounded rectangular cross-section, ends in a broad,
collar-like suspension loop, now mostly broken away. corroded to the
loop are the remains of the suspension chain, comprising a plain,
circular, copper-alloy ring and a fine copper alloy chain made of small,
double, loop-in-loop links.

A small slide key with teeth cut into a straight rectangular bit. The
rectangular-sectioned handle is short and markedly tapered with a
circular suspension loop. Heavy corrosion masks most detail, including
the number and form of the teeth.

Pl.
10

26. ?Key.
Unillus. G 10/86 AA 22 F
(5) L 10.1 cm

The flat rectangular-sectioned handle has a flat disc terminal with a
small circular eye. The bit, flat and rectangular, is probably broken.
Probably an L-shaped lift key.

27. ?Key. G 10/88 BB 15
A/50 (2) L 8.4 cm

A tapered rectangular-sectioned strip with the broken stub of a
turned-over suspension loop at the narrow end and what appears to be a
rectangular bit, broken across its perforation, at the broad end.
Probably a small padlock key

The looped terminal of a large drop-hinge strap. The loop, of rounded
cross-section, was never fully closed. The strap, which meets the loop
at a marked shoulder, is broken across the First nail hole. Probably
from a door or large chest.

A small drop-hinge staple, with a circular-sectioned upright and
rectangular-sectioned bar. Instead of a spiked end the bar terminates in
a small loop, in which is engaged a retaining pin with small round
head.

A small stout strap-hinge, of normal one-and-two plate form. One of
the tapered arms is near complete; the other retains a small nail in
situ near its broken end. The rigidity of this type of hinge and the
size of this example would have been well suited to use on smaller,
(especially cupboard) doors. For a near-identical example from London,
see Manning 1985, 127, P1.59, R13.

Fig.
18

34. Door pivot. G 10/80 X
18 V (3) SF no. 80.85 L nail 8.8
cm

A stout example. The collar is well made and has the remains of lead
packing adhering to the lower wall exterior. The nail has a large,
circular, lightly domed head, flat on the inside. On its
rectangular-sectioned stem are mineral-replaced wood fragments. It
appears to have been hammered into the end of the doorpost, its head
forming the lower plate of the pivot. For lead and composite
copper-alloy and lead examples see VGIO lead objects, nos.4-5. Diam.
collar, internal 4.5 cm

The rectangular staple has a pointed end and a hooked rod terminal. A
flat-headed nail is in situ in a nail hole near the pointed end, and
there is a second, empty, nail hole near the hooked end. The stem of the
nail is bent over twice. Mineral-replaced wood fragments adhere to the
staple around the base of the nail, with the grain running up the long
axis of the staple. These traces end before the second nail hole, 7.2 cm
from the pointed end of the staple. The split spiked-loop is of normal
form, with looped head and twin spiked arms. Both its arms are
out-turned and broken, indicating a thickness of c. 2.5 cm for the wood
to which it was fastened.

The rectangular staple has a squared end and a hooked rod terminal.
Near the squared end a flat-headed nail. is corroded in situ, and there
is a second, but empty, nail. hole near the hooked end. Mineral-replaced
wood fragments adhere to the staple around the base of the nail. They
extend only c. 2.7 cm from the squared end and their grain runs across
the long axis of the staple. As on no-40, therefore, it is probable that
the second nail hole was unused. The split spiked-loop, of normal form,
has out-turned broken arms.

The sub-rectangular staple has an oblique squared end and a
comparatively slender looped hook. Near the squared end a nail (now
broken) is corroded in situ, and there is a second nail hole, blocked
with corrosion products, near the hooked end. The spikes of the split
spiked-loop are broken at the point where they are turned outwards. The
gap between this point and the base of the looped head, which
approximates to the thickness of the wood to which the loop was
attached, is 1.6 cm

43. Hooked staple.
Unillus. G 10/87 Y 20 W
(2) L 12.3 cm

The sub-rectangular staple has a squared end. Its looped hook is
distorted open, which is presumably why no split spiked-loop is attached
(see nos.48-50). A nail, with flat rounded head and broken stem, is
corroded in situ in a hole near the squared end, and there is a second
hole, empty, a little past the mid-point of the
staple

44. Hooked staple.
Unillus. G 10/87 Y 20 W (2)
SF no. 87.37 L 14.9 cm

A large sub-rectangular staple, slightly tapered towards its roughly
squared end, near which is a large, sub-circular, empty nail hole. A
second hole, almost midway along the staple, preserves a corroded nail
in situ. Recent damage has distorted the looped hook (see nos.
48-50)

A small, slender, sub rectangular example which splays markedly
towards the squared end, near which is an empty nail hole. Nearby,
almost at the mid-point, is a second hole with a nail corroded in situ.
Mineral-replaced wood fragments adhere to the staple around the base of
the nail, their grain running with the long axis of the staple. Like no.
43,the looped hook is distorted open (see nos.48-50).

46. Hooked staple.
Unillus. G 10/85 X 21 (1) SF
no. 85.49 L 11.5 cm

A flat, tapered strip with a crook-shaped terminal, the eye very
slender. A nail is corroded in situ near the broader end, which may be
broken. Probably the same type of staple as nos. 40-45.

47. Hooked staple.
Unillus. G 10/87 Y 20 W
(2) L 7.4 cm (broken)

A small example broken about half way along its splayed plate. One
empty nail hole remains (see nos.48-50).

All are of normal form, as no. 40. They come from the same context
as hooked staples nos. 43-45 and 47, of which they may well be the
second component. 48: spikes complete, slender and unbent. 49-50: spikes
bent and broken.

A small split pin, with a tiny, perforated, D-shaped plate at the
head. The slender arms are formed into a circle, and the mineral
replaced wood fragments adhering to their inner face show that they
enclosed a circular-sectioned wooden pole c. 3 cm in diameter. Possibly
some sort of suspension device.

Fig.
20

58. Split pin.
Unillus. G 10/88 W 15 Y (4)
SF no. 88.15 L 3.7 cm

Another example, as no. 57, but broken at the divided stem. TWO more
examples were found at Site VG 11 (G11, iron objects nos. 15-16 below).

59. Ring-headed spike.
Unillus. G 10/87 AA 19/20 So
R (3) L 8.3 cm

A slender spiked rod with a circular, collar-like head.

60. Ring-headed pin.
Unillus. G 10/85 Y 23 V
(6) L 6.3 cm

A small pin with spiked, rectangular-sectioned stem and rounded
rectangular looped head. Perhaps a small linch pin.

61. Joiner's dog.
Unillus. G 10/80 X 18 (1) SF
no. 80.15 L 12.5 cm

A broad U-shaped example with two short spikes. It was adapted, in
antiquity, by bending one end of the bar through a right
angle.

Normal form, with a spiked stem and two blunt arms. Various sizes.
T-clamps were made in a variety of sizes and served a number of
different structural uses, notably as supports, particularly for box
flue tiles in the heating system of bathhouses.

31 examples of similar type, comprising a tapered rectangular
sectioned rod, the broad end hammered flat with two ear-like flanges,
the narrow, blunt-pointed, end bent back to a near-right angle. Their
length varies between 10.3 and 17.1 cm These were clips used to secure
stone revetments. The broad, flanged, end was embedded in mortar, while
the angled pointed tip was engaged in a small-drilled socket in the edge
of the stone panels etc. The type is known in both iron and bronze. For
bronze examples see VG 10 copper alloy objects, nos.25-36, and VGII
copper-alloy objects nos.12-14. For examples in both metals from Sardis
see Waldbaum 1983, 66-7, PI.19, 266-77; and from Mola di Monte Gelato
see Jackson in T.W Potter et al., forthcoming.

A single, heavy oval link with indented sides, made from a rounded
rectangular-sectioned rod.

105. Ring.
Unillus. G
10/87 AA 23 C (4) SF no. 87.20Diam. 4.5 cm

A large circular example with rounded rectangular cross-section.

106. Ring.
Unillus. G
10/84 DD 22 A (2) SF no.
84.168 Diam. 4.3
cm

A well made ring of rounded rectangular cross-section.

107. Ring.
Unillus. G
10/85 AA 22 C
(2) Diam. 4.2
cm

A well made ring of rounded diamond-shaped cross-section.

108. Ring.
Unillus. G
10/79 P 12 D (4) SF no.
79.33 Diam. 4.0
cm

A square-sectioned circular ring.

109. Collar.
Unillus. G
10/84 DD 16 C (7) SF no.
84.150 Diam. 2.9
cm

A small stout collar, neatly made, with an expanded rim at one end.

110. ?Bridle
bit. G 10/88 BB
15 A (2) L 7.8 cm

A rod, looped at both ends, with a series of bands around the stem,
arranged as two thin bands interspersed with three wide bands. The
end-loops are set in different planes, and one is broken. Possibly a
link from, an ornate chain. More probably a link from a bridle bit, for
it closely resembles the two links of a complete bridle bit found in the
Roman fort on Waddon Hill, Dorset (Webster 1965, 147-9, Fig. 8, no.
28).

A plain, handled bowl. The handle, of rectangular cross-section is
quite rudimentarily made. It tapers towards its terminal, which is of
squat onion shape, with a small circular perforation punched through
from top to bottom. The circular bowl, rather less than a hemisphere,
has a simple thickened rim, 1.5 cm beneath which is a slender, channeled
groove marking a very slight carination. Beneath this point the wall of
the bowl. runs in an uninterrupted smooth curve. The handle/bowl
junction is rather unusual: the sides of the bowl are pinched in so that
the bowl runs up into the handle for a short distance. The object is
complete, and damage is restricted to a fracture of the rim and upper
wall of the bowl almost opposite the handle junction. Though the surface
is lightly encrusted, it is clear that it was neither decorated nor
stamped with a maker's mark. For the general form see Radnoti 1938, Taf.
V, no. 24; Eggers 1951, Taf. 13, nos. 159-60; Willers 1907, 82-4,
Abb.48-51.

A sheet bronze vessel in shattered, corroded fragments. Only the
circular base is measurable. The body defies reconstruction, but there
is a lightly concave, splayed neck separated from the body by a
carination. No rim fragments are preserved. Perhaps a large flagon or
jar, cf. Eggers 1951, Taf. 11, no. 129; and Radnoti 1938, Taf. XIV, no.
78.

A W-shaped double hook made from round-sectioned wire with spiked
terminals. This is the normal form of hook used to suspend the pan at
each end of the scale beam on a Roman balance (libra). Cf, e.g. Wheeler
1930, 85-6, Fig.22,2, a complete balance from London.

Pl.
23

5. Needle. Unillus. G 10/87 AA
19/20 R (3) L 12.2 cm

A circular-sectioned needle, broken across the eye. The pointed end
is complete but bent.

6. ?Stylus. Unillus. G 10/86
EE 16 Area K (8) L 9.9 cm

A twisted, square-sectioned, slender rod with a wedge-shaped ?eraser
at one end. The other end is broken at which point the stem is no longer
twisted.

A small openwork pendant with the suspension ring still held in its
swan's-neck loop. This is a plain and much devolved example of a popular
type of pendant used on horse harness, usually in a military context, in
the 1st cent. AD. (Oldenstein 1985. Bishop 1988). The form is based upon
a stylized leaf and tendril design, often with small, pendant acorns,
and the surface is frequently modeled in low relief and inlaid with
tendril and grape motifs. However, the size and degree of decoration are
variable, and this is a small and plain example with no surface
decoration. Cf. Colchester (Hawkes and Hull 1947,339,PI.CIII,22), Hod
Hill (Richmond 1968,41,Fig.31, top right), Newstead (Curle 1911,300,Pl.
LXXIII,A,-1-4), and Wroxeter (Bishop 1988,145-6,Fig.44,ly).

Fig.
23

8. Pendant. G 10/87 AA 23 C (4) SF
no. 87.13 Ht. 4.1 cm

A neatly made double-pelta-shaped cavalry pendant with pelta-shaped
cutouts and a simple folded suspension loop, now slightly distorted.
Apart from a central recessed circle there is no sign of surface
decoration, though shallow engraving could be obscured by the lightly
encrusted patina. Cf. several examples, including one near-identical
piece, from Baden (Unz 1972,50,57,Abb.6,58). See also Bishop
1988,145,148,Fig.44,3.

Pl.
24

9. Pendant. G 10/80 X 18 T (7) SF no.
80.86 W 2.6 cm

A small, oval, sheet bronze pendant with openwork border, the lower
part now broken. There is no further decoration, but the front surface
is tinned. The suspension loop, a simple swan's neck, is a little
distorted. This is an unusual form not closely paralleled among known
cavalry pendants. However, a Ist cent. AD military origin is likely in
view of the tinning - a feature of many Roman military copper-alloy
fittings of that period.

Fig. 24; Pl.
25

10. Pendant. G 10/83 DD
19 (3) SF no. 83.204 W 2.4 cm

A small heart-shaped pendant with plain surface. The lower part is
broken, and the suspension loop, a simple rolled-over strip, has been
pulled open. A simple example of a common form of cavalry pendant of 1st
cent. AD to early 2nd cent AD date. Cf Vindonissa (Unz
1974,24,39,Abb.11,131).

The pendant is a small, tapered circular-sectioned rod with ring
moldings and a looped head. It is suspended from the lowest of five
circular links. The links are made from wire, the two ends of which are
twisted round the adjacent arc of the hoop in a simple decorative, but
functional, manner. One of the links is broken open, and it is possible,
therefore, that the chain was once longer. The chain is surmounted by a
suspension device comprising a circular collar-like loop with, at
right-angles, a necked spade shaped plate with a small circular
perforation, in which is held the end of the chain. The object has a
rather functional appearance, though no obvious use is apparent.

A small bolt from a slide lock. It has three sub-rectangular
perforations - one large and two small - set in a row.

Pl.
29

15. Drop handle. G 10/87
AA 23 C (4) SF no. 87.12 W 5.9
cm

A well made, U-shaped drop handle of normal form, with diamond shaped
cross-section and looped terminals. Probably a furniture fitting, though
the type was widely used, for example, as the carrying-handle on Roman
helmets.

About one-third of a large, neatly cut, fluted ring. Probably from a
wooden casket or a bronze vessel. For the former, cf. Bushe-Fox
1928,28-32,Pl. XV,4-7, four examples in a set of box fittings in a
mid-1st cent. AD context at the Roman fort of Richborough; for the
latter, cf. Eggers 1951,PI.8,Type 79,PI.9,Types
84,86-87.

17. Ring handle.
Unillus. G 10/87 Z 21/22 R
(2) Diam. c. 6.0 cm

A large, neatly cut, fluted ring fragment, as no. 16, but larger
gauge, and therefore not part of the same ring, though possibly from the
same suite of fittings.

A stout circular-sectioned tube, open at the base, with a rectangular
projection above a discoidal flange at the top. There is a rectangular
slot in the projection, with the remains of a circular iron ring in
situ. Two holes pierce the tube at about its mid-point. They are on
opposite sides of the tube, are approximately circular, and one is a
little larger than the other. This is the 'male' component of a
hydraulic valve for controlling the flow of piped water. By turning the
tube, with the iron ring handle, through 90 degrees the. two holes could
be brought in line with two pipes flanking the valve casing ('female'
component), thus allowing water to pass through. A further turn of 90
degrees would close the aperture and stop the flow, while lesser turns
would produce a partial flow. Such valves are known at a number of
sites, notably those around the Bay of Naples. A 'male' component of
virtually identical form to the present example, though rather larger,
may be seen in its operative position in a complete stopcock from
Pompeii (dell'orto and Varone 1990, 162-3, no. 50), which must date to
the very end of the 1st cent. BC or the 1st cent. AD, i.e. between the
completion of the Augustan aqueduct and the eruption of AD 79. There is
another example, from Torre Annunziata, in a tap still in place at the
end of a length of lead piping (Walters 1899,332, no-2577). See also
Eschebach 1979. The presence of this piece of hydraulic equipment at VG
10 implies the existence there of a piped supply of running water.

Pl.
31

19. Stud. G 10/89 U 15
No. E (4) SF no. 89.34 Diam. 5.2
cm

A large domed boss with an iron spike. The deeply molded exterior has
a marked rim and a prominent central prong. Function uncertain, but
possibly a decorative door stud.

Fig.
25

20. Stud. G 10/87 AA 23 C
(4) SF no. 87.23 L 3.0 cm Diam. 2.2
cm

A decorative stud with a discoidal head and rectangular-sectioned
spike. The head has engraved, concentric circle ornament.

A disc-headed stud with slender, ornately faceted stem. The bent head
has engraved concentric circle ornament on its
underside.

22. ?Stud.
Unillus. G 10/89 U 15 So. E
(4) Diam. 2.0 cm

Another example, as no. 21. Stem
broken.

23. Stud.
Unillus. G 10/85 23 P
(6) Diam. 1.5 cm

A small disc-headed stud, stem bent.

24. Pin. G 10/87 T 18 X
(B) SF no. 87.41 L 5.1 cm

A small pin, with a tapered, circular-sectioned, blunt-ended stem,
and a slightly dished, onion-shaped, centrally perforated plate at the
head. The plate edges are rather ragged, and the pin has the appearance
of a functional object rather than a decorative item. Perhaps a small
securing pin.

12 examples of similar type comprising a rectangular-sectioned rod,
with one end hanriered out into two ear-like flanges, and the other end
tapered, and blunt-pointed, and turned back to a near right angle. The
three complete examples measure 10.9, 13.1, and 14.4 cm long, but there
are broken examples in excess of 15 cm Thus the length range is likely
to be similar to that of the iron examples - see VG 10 iron objects,
nos. 73-103 for a discussion of the type, with references; and see VG 11
copper-alloy objects nos. 12-14 for further
examples.

37. ?Harness fitting. G
10/88 W 15 Area B (4) SF no. 88.7 L
3.9 cm

A heavy, cast, spectacle-shaped object comprising two rings separated
by a group of three projecting tapered prongs, their bases set in an
equilateral triangle, their tips slightly turned in. One ring has a
molded projection on its rim. The other is distorted and broken at that
point. This is an example of a well-known, though ill-understood, type
of object. Found throughout much of the ancient world - in Italy,
Greece, Magna Graecia and Gaul - examples are known in contexts as early
as the 5th century BC. Some have been identified as knuckle-dusters, bow
pullers or horse-breakers, but. generally they are regarded as items of
horse harness. Despite their robustness they are frequently distorted or
broken suggesting heavy, stressful usage. See Romualdi 1989, 131 , no
.155; and Jacobi 1974, 200, 307, Taf .53 no. 818, from Manching

Fig. 28; Pl. 32

38. Terminal. G 10/83 DD
16 (1) SF no. 83.36 H. 2.7 cm W 3.5
cm

A bifurcated rod with crescentic arms (tip of one broken) surmounting
a small ovoid plate. Quite rudimentarily made. Function uncertain.

Three joining fragments of a flattish sheet of varying thickness -
1-3 m. It is gilded on one face, with black streaks, which may be
painted/inlaid/reserved decoration. The fragment has the appearance of
drapery. Possibly statuary.

A circular ring, now broken and a little distorted, of thin oval
cross-section. At one side is a projecting decorative strip comprising a
pair of molded loops with a tiny link passing through each. Whatever
hung from these has broken away. For the type in precious metal see
Marshall 1911, Pl. LIV, nos.2581-2, 2587; Pl. LV, nos.2681-2.

Fig.
29

44. ?Earring. G 10/78 Q
15/B/Q 16 (4) B SK. 13 SF no. 78.20

Two elliptical fragments of wire, one of square cross-section, the
other of round cross-section. Similar proportions to no. 43.

A composite fitting, comprising a copper-alloy pivot block in a lead
setting. The pivot block is rectangular, 6.1 x 5.7 x 1.1 cm, with a
turned circular recess for a doorpost 4.0 cm in diameter. The lead
setting is an irregular rectangle, c. 9.3 cm square, with a rectangular
recess for the pivot block. Cf, e.g. Ulbert 1969, 52, Abb.5, no. 4, from
Rheingöbnheim. Examples may be seen in situ in houses at Pompeii and
Herculaneum. See also an example in iron, VG 10 iron objects, no.
34.

Fig.
33

5. Door pivot. Unillus. G
10/87 X 21 L (2)

The lead setting for a copper-alloy door pivot, as no. 4, but with an
extension to one side. L 15.5 cm (broken). Recess, 7.4 cm square.
Extension, L c. 9.5 cm

A long, heavy, tapered bar of octagonal cross-section. At the narrow
end is a carefully formed lightly domed head. At the broad end the bar
terminates in a large, thick rectangular-sectioned, flame-shaped
spatula, the rounded tip of which is slightly burred. The bar is
slightly bent. Greek and Roman masonry buildings were usually
constructed with simple equipment. Though lifting machinery and pulleys
were used much of the work and all of the fine adjustment to the
positioning of ashlar blocks would have been accomplished with levers
like this one. However, Roman tools were often dual-purpose and a
stone-breaking function is also conceivable. The burring of the tip
would be consistent with the latter use, while the slight bowing of the
shaft would be a likely consequence of levering. This is a most unusual
find but it is paralleled by two closely similar, though slightly less
well-preserved examples from Pompeii (Gaitzsch 1980, 359, Taf. 32,
nos.154 and 155).

Fig.
1

2. Ploughshare. G 11/76 F 20 B (3) SF
no. 76.38 Wt c. 5.5 kg

A massive, strongly tapered, open socket of C-shaped cross-section,
terminating in a tapered, rectangular-sectioned bar, proportionately
small, which is curved towards the damaged tip. The socket mouth has two
lug-like projections, both intact and square-ended. Ancient ploughs,
more correctly ards, were made mainly of wood and have been preserved
only very rarely under exceptional conditions. Their metal parts, though
having a better chance of survival, are still rare finds, and the
present share is a very welcome addition to the restricted number of
known examples. It is also one of the most massive. Under normal
circumstances such a large piece of iron, if no longer serviceable as an
implement, would have been reforged, and we are fortunate that, for
whatever reason, this share was overlooked. It conforms generally to the
known types of Roman share which usually have a bar-shaped,
sub-triangular or arrow shaped tip (see e.g. Manning 1964. White
1967,123-145). However, the socket is much more substantial than the
tang or low-flanged mouth usually encountered. Amongst the few parallels
is a share from Pompeii with a socket of the same form and dimensions,
though with an arrow-shaped tip (White 1967,135,190,Fig.110a); and the
arrow-share on a well-known copper-alloy model of a beam-ard from
Cologne, which is of the same proportions and elongated triangular form,
but which has a tang in place of the socket (Manning1964,57,PI.VIII,1.).
L 50.2 cm Max.W socket, 12.6 cm

A hooked blade with rectangular handle plate. The blade is a well
made, tapered hook with a lightly lenticular cross-section. Its cutting
edge is on the inner (concave) side only. The handle plate is pierced by
two square-sectioned rivets. Both have simple, expanded, domed square
heads. The more complete rivet is 2.8 cm long. As the handle plate. is
the same width it may be assumed that the handle was of circular
cross-section, 2.8 cm in diameter. Mineral-replaced organic remains,
which ran the full length of the handle plate, demonstrate that the
material was wood. Hooked blades were common and versatile agricultural
implements which served a wide range of functions. A hook of this size
might have been used for reaping or hedging as well as in viticulture.
For a discussion of the type see Manning 1985, 53-8.

A flat trapezoidal blade of rectangular cross-section. It is broken
at the narrow end, beyond which it splays to a broad cutting-edge, now
damaged. Perhaps the blade from a light adze or Axe or broad-bladed
chisel.

Fig.
4

5. Stylus. Unillus. G 11/77 K
21 B K 22 (2) L 6.8 cm

A slender stylus with elegant, circular-sectioned stem, apparently
undecorated. The eraser is of slender wedge-shaped form; the writing tip
is broken.

A slide key, with the teeth set on an elliptical (C-shaped) bit.
There are three teeth, of rounded rectangular cross-section, one of
which is complete. The tapered handle has a rounded rectangular
cross-section and terminates in a large, circular, collar-like
suspension loop.

A small slide key with the teeth cut into a wedge-shaped,
rectangular-sectioned bit. Heavy corrosion obscures details of the
teeth. The tapered, rectangular-sectioned handle terminates in a
proportionately large, collar-like suspension loop, the upper half now
broken.

A small, heavy-headed nail. The square-sectioned shank is short and
tapers abruptly to a point, giving it a pyramidal appearance. The head
is very thick, of sub-rectangular shape, with an irregular, lightly
domed surface.

12. Washer.
Unillus. G 11/77 I 22 A
(2) L 4.3 cm

A lightly domed, bow-tie-shaped washer. Its central perforation has a
collar-like projection on the convex face. Possibly a decorative washer
for a door stud.

A finely-made, decorative T-shaped strip, now distorted and partly
broken. The lower part of the main vertical stem is of tapered spatulate
form, with a low plano-convex cross-section. It is surmounted by two
slender vase-shaped units, the uppermost of which terminates in a
denticulate plate from which two horizontal arms project. one arm is
broken; the other, which is bent back on itself, is slender, of
plano-convex cross-section, with a tapered, rounded
end.

A small split pin, with a tiny, perforated, D-shaped plate at the
head, now slightly damaged. The slender arms are broken at the point
where they splay outwards. Cf. Site VG 10, iron objects nos.
57-58.

An L-shaped object made from a rectangular-sectioned bar. The longer
am has a spiked terminal which is bent, probably through being hammered
into position. The shorter arm, which appears to be complete, has a
blunt end, also slightly bent. Probably a large wall hook or a cramp for
securing box-flue tiles etc.

18. ?Wall hook.
Unillus. G 11/78 K 23 B K
23 L 9.5 cm

An L-shaped, spiked rod, probably a simple wall
hook.

19. ?Wall hook.
Unillus. G 11/78 K 23 B K
23 L 5.5 cm

As no. 18 but smaller.

20. Chain link.
Unillus. G 11/78 J 19 C
(7) L 11.5 cm (orig. c.17 cm)

A looped rod of diamond-shaped cross-section, broken at one end.
Probably originally a double-looped link from a large chain. There is
wear consistent with such use on the inside of the remaining
eye.

21. Ring/link.
Unillus. G 11/79 H 14 C (4)
SF no. 79.63 L 4.6 cm

A pear-shaped ring, possibly a distorted oval, with traces of heavy
wear on the inside.

22. Ring/link.
Unillus. G 11/77 H 18 A
(4) L 3.8 cm

A broken ring or link, now U-shaped, of rounded rectangular
cross-section.

Upper handle fragment, from a large wide-mouthed jug, comprising a
plain projecting thumb-stop flanked by two curving, tapered arms with
simple everted moulding. This is probably a highly-devolved version of
the motif commonly employed on this type of handle, which shows, on each
side, the head of a long-beaked water bird issuing from a bunch of
leaves. The slotted inner face of the arms ensured the handle had a
secure fastening on the flanged rim of the jug. Cf. Eggers 1951 Taf. 11,
nos. 122-3; den Boesterd 1956, 75-6, Pl. XI, no. 273; also Curle 1911,
275-6, Pls. LV, LVI, from Newstead. For a still more simplified form
from a 1st cent. AD context at Cirencester see Wacher and McWhirr 1982,
93, 95, Fig.27, no. 30.

The haft, long and slender, is circular-sectioned. It is broken and
slightly bent. The head, set a little obliquely to the haft, is in the
form of a blacksmith's cross-pene hanrier, with one square face and one
chisel face. Miniature tools were a standard class of Roman votive. For
a very similar, though rather larger, example from Corfu see Walters,
1899, 358, no. 2977; for examples in groups of models from two graves in
Cologne see Geimnia 0-3, 1939, 56, Taf. 1 and 4; and for a discussion of
the significance of the model groups see Manning 1966. The Rhenish grave
groups date from the late 2nd to late 4th century AD. Alternatively, the
present example may have been part of a figurine (e.g. attribute of
Vulcan or Mars), or, perhaps, simply a decorative pin.

Fig. 7; Pl.
4

3. Tweezers. G 11/77 L 18 (1) SF no.
77.8 L 9.7 cm

A large, well made, ornate tweezers, complete, but with distorted
jaws. The simple folded spring is a broad inverted triangle with
elegantly hollowed sides and beveled edges. The grip is a rectangular
plate divided from the spring zone by a grooved and channeled moulding.
The jaws, of plano-convex cross-section taper evenly from the grip to
their blunt-nosed tip. Their inner face is flat with no rifled
facetting. Though similar to surgical examples (see, eg. Jackson 1986,
122 Fig.12, 137-8) this is more probably a toilet than a medical
implement.

Fig.
8

4. Needle. Unillus. G 11/80 J
15 A SF no. 80.11 L 14.4 cm

Complete in two joining fragments. Normal form with circular
sectioned stem and slender slit eye in a blunt-ended spatulate
head.

5. Buckle pin. Unillus. G
11/77 J 23 B K 23 (3) SF no. 77.71 L 2.8 cm

A small example, the loop intact, but the end of the rectangular
sectioned tongue broken.

Bolt from a slide lock. There are five perforations set in a
triangular arrangement of three sub-circular holes flanked by two
sub-rectangular slots. Their irregular appearance gives the impression
that they were re-cut, presumably in order to change the lock.

Pl. 5

7. Stud. Unillus. G 11/79 J 17
B K 17 B (2) SF no. 79.92 Diam. 2.5 cm

A disc-headed stud, the stem broken very close to the head. The head
has a neatly turned rim and inner grooved
ring.

3 examples of similar-type comprising a rectangular or rounded
rectangular-sectioned rod with one end hammered out into two earlike
flanges, and the other end tapered and blunt-pointed, and turned back to
a near right-angle. The two complete examples measure 12.8 cm and 10.8
cmSee site VG 10copper-alloy objects, nos. 25-36, for further
examples; and see site VG 10 iron objects, nos. 73-103 for a discussion
of the type, with references.

A short section, cut and distorted. Now sub-oval in cross-section, it
was probably originally circular.

2. Dolium clamps. G 11/76 H 22 A
(2)

A large number of complete and fragmentary examples of these repair
clamps were found in this context. Most are cruciform or
anthropomorphic, with splayed terminals which improved the security of
the repair. The majority are plain, with file/rasp marks, but some have
an impressed design on one face, the most ornate of which is a 'shoaling
bow-tie' motif.

Pl.
6

SILVER
OBJECTS

1. Disc. G 11/77 K 23 B (3) SF no
77.487 Diam. 3.5 cm

A very lightly domed circular disc with pricked center-point, plain
inner zone, and triple-grooved rim. There is no sign of solder or other
joining media on the plain flat underside. However, encrusted corrosion
may have obscured this. Function, other than decoration, uncertain.
Perhaps a boss from a vessel interior?

Fig.
10

References

Bishop 1988 M.C. Bishop, 'Cavalry equipment of the Roman army in the
1st century AD', in J.C. Coulston (ed.) Military Equipment and the
Identity of Roman Soldiers. Proceedings of the Fourth Roman Military Equipment
Conference (British Archaeol. Reports, International Series 394, 1988),
67-195.

Oldenstein 1985 J. Oldenstein, 'Manufacture and supply of the Roman
army with bronze fittings', in M.C. Bishop (ed.) The Production and
Distribution of Roman Military EquipTkent. Proceedings of the Second Roman
Military Equipment Research Seminar (British Archaeol. Reports,
International Series, 275, 1985), 82-93.